Scorpions

Scorpionida

Scorpions, with their pincer-like palps (appendages) and long tail equipped with a sting, are one of the most easily recognised of all arachnids.

Australia has 43 described species. All are capable of stinging, and some are very painful, but none are highly venomous. In contrast, some overseas species are deadly, claiming hundreds of lives each year.

Common forms are the rainforest, mottled and desert scorpions.

Rainforest scorpions

Rainforest scorpions are robust and dark coloured and have small tails. Their venom is weak and their nature is placid.

Mottled scorpions

Mottled scorpions are tiny and brownish-yellow. Some are reasonably harmless, but Australia's mottled scorpions include some members of the family Buthidae. These scorpions are often highly venomous and Australia’s species can deliver very painful (but not deadly) stings.

Desert scorpions

Desert scorpions are impressive and often large (up to 120 mm) and build spiralled burrows for shelter. Despite their size their venom is weaker than in buthid scorpions.

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